Apparatus and methods for testing the integrity of containment sumps

ABSTRACT

Methods for testing the integrity of a containment sump in contact with a matrix with a testing apparatus are provided. The testing apparatus may include an underground fixture positioned in contact the matrix, a test chamber, a conduit structure providing fluid communication between the underground fixture and the test chamber, and a pressure source for exerting a pressure that is communicated to the underground fixture via the conduit structure. In some embodiments, a method may include: releasing a test media into the containment sump; generating a negative pressure within the testing apparatus for a time period; and testing for the presence of test media within the testing apparatus. In other embodiments, a method may include: releasing a test media into the testing apparatus; generating a positive pressure within the testing apparatus for a time period; and testing for the presence of test media within the containment sump.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing dateof U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/522,795, filed on Jun. 21, 2017,entitled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TESTING THE INTEGRITY OF CONTAINMENTSUMPS”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This patent specification relates to the field of apparatuses andmethods for testing the integrity of storage tanks, piping, andancillary equipment. More specifically, this patent specificationrelates to apparatuses and methods for testing the integrity ofcontainment sumps that are associated with catching releases ofmaterials released from storage of materials in the tanks, piping andfilling or removing materials from the storage tanks, piping andancillary equipment.

BACKGROUND

Underground storage tanks (USTs) that contain a wide variety ofmaterials, including regulated liquids such as gasoline, aviation fuel,diesel and other types of regulated liquids, are required under federaland state regulations to provide various compliance documentation andperiodic tests. One of these requirements is that tanks and pipinginstalled after Apr. 11, 2016 must have secondary containment andinterstitial monitoring. Further, secondary containment sumps fordispensers, submersible turbine pumps, transition and spill are requiredto be tested for integrity at least once every three years. Furthermore,some containment sumps must be tested for integrity annually.

The only current acceptable method to test containment is filling thecontainment with a test liquid such as water. Typically, a volume ofwater is placed in the containment above any bottom and sidepenetrations, measured and then remeasured after a calculated period oftime. If there is no loss of the test liquid, then the containmentsystem is determined to have passed the integrity test. However, thewater testing fluid is considered contaminated since it was placed in acontainment vessel used to catch releases of liquids such as gasoline ordiesel fuel. Thus, the water testing fluid must be disposed of in anenvironmentally safe manner. Currently, the EPA states that there areapproximately 223,157 UST facilities in the United States and eachfacility averages three USTs and four dispenser islands. The annualtesting of spill bucket containment would require the disposal ofapproximately 4,463,140 gallons of water annually at a cost ofapproximately $89,262,800.00. Additionally, and based on current EPARegulatory Costs, the three-year integrity testing of undergroundstorage tank and dispenser containment sumps would require the disposalof approximately 7,810,495 gallons of water annually at a cost ofapproximately $156,209,900.00.

Therefore, a need exists for a novel apparatuses and methods for testingthe integrity of storage tanks, piping, and ancillary equipment. Afurther need exists for novel apparatuses and methods for testing theintegrity of storage tanks, piping, and ancillary equipment which reducethe amount of testing fluid and must be disposed of in anenvironmentally safe manner. Finally, a need exists for novelapparatuses and methods for testing the integrity of containment sumpsthat are associated with catching releases of materials released fromstorage of materials in the tanks, piping and filling or removingmaterials from the storage tanks, piping and ancillary equipment.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An apparatus and methods for testing the integrity of containment sumpsare provided. The apparatus and methods are intended to meet the ongoingneed for integrity testing and can test containment sumps that havepiping or other equipment that penetrates through the side walls andbottom through tight-sealed openings. The apparatus and methods can alsotest sumps with piping and equipment placed into the open top of thesump which would not allow for any lid or fixture to be placed on top ofthe sump for tightness testing. The apparatus and methods allow testmedia comprising heavier than air gases and/or vapors to be introducedwith negative or positive pressure, either to the interior or exteriorof the containment sump space, and then measured on the oppositeinterior or exterior to see if the test media has passed through theside walls, bottoms, or sealed penetrations of the containment sump todetermine the integrity of the containment sump.

In some embodiments, an apparatus for testing the integrity ofcontainment sumps may include an underground fixture configured to bepositioned underground proximate to a containment sump. A conduitstructure may be coupled to the underground fixture, and the conduitstructure may have a first conduit and second conduit coupled inparallel to a third conduit and to a fourth conduit with the undergroundfixture coupled to the third conduit and with one or more valvesgoverning fluid communication through the conduits of the conduitstructure. A test chamber may be coupled to the fourth conduit, and thetest chamber may have one or more valves. A pressure source for exertinga pressure within the conduit structure for motivating a test mediabetween the containment sump and the underground fixture may be coupledto the fourth conduit via the test chamber or via a connector on thefourth conduit.

According to another embodiment consistent with the principles of theinvention, a method for testing the integrity of a containment sump incontact with a matrix using negative pressure via an apparatus fortesting the integrity of containment sumps is provided. The testingapparatus may include an underground fixture positioned in contact withthe matrix, a test chamber, a conduit structure providing fluidcommunication between the underground fixture and the test chamber, anda pressure source for exerting a pressure that is communicated to theunderground fixture via the conduit structure. The method may include:releasing a test media into the containment sump; generating a negativepressure within the testing apparatus for a time period; and testing forthe presence of test media within the testing apparatus.

According to another embodiment consistent with the principles of theinvention, a method for testing the integrity of a containment sump incontact with a matrix using positive pressure via an apparatus fortesting the integrity of containment sumps is provided. The testingapparatus may include an underground fixture positioned in contact withthe matrix, a test chamber, a conduit structure providing fluidcommunication between the underground fixture and the test chamber, anda pressure source for exerting a pressure that is communicated to theunderground fixture via the conduit structure. The method may include:releasing a test media into the testing apparatus; generating a positivepressure within the testing apparatus for a time period; and testing forthe presence of test media within the containment sump.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the present invention are illustrated as an exampleand are not limited by the figures of the accompanying drawings, inwhich like references may indicate similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1-FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of an example of an apparatusfor testing the integrity of containment sumps according to variousembodiments described herein.

FIG. 2-FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an example of a method fortesting the integrity of containment sumps using negative pressureaccording to various embodiments described herein.

FIG. 3-FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of another example of a method fortesting the integrity of containment sumps using negative pressureaccording to various embodiments described herein.

FIG. 4-FIG. 4 depicts a schematic diagram of an example of an apparatusfor testing the integrity of containment sumps using negative pressureaccording to various embodiments described herein.

FIG. 5-FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic diagram of an alternative exampleof an apparatus for testing the integrity of containment sumps usingnegative pressure according to various embodiments described herein.

FIG. 6-FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an example of a method fortesting the integrity of containment sumps using positive pressureaccording to various embodiments described herein.

FIG. 7-FIG. 7 depicts a block diagram of an example of another methodfor testing the integrity of containment sumps using positive pressureaccording to various embodiments described herein.

FIG. 8-FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example of anapparatus for testing the integrity of containment sumps using positivepressure according to various embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Asused herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of oneor more of the associated listed items. As used herein, the singularforms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms aswell as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/orcomponents, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or moreother features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof.

For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left”,“right”, “rear”, “front”, “side”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, andderivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1.However, one will understand that the invention may assume variousalternative orientations and step sequences, except where expresslyspecified to the contrary. Therefore, the specific devices and processesillustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the followingspecification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventiveconcepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions andother physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosedherein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expresslystate otherwise.

Although the terms “first”, “second”, etc. are used herein to describevarious elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms.These terms are only used to distinguish one element from anotherelement. For example, the first element may be designated as the secondelement, and the second element may be likewise designated as the firstelement without departing from the scope of the invention.

As used in this application, the term “about” or “approximately” refersto a range of values within plus or minus 10% of the specified number.Additionally, as used in this application, the term “substantially”means that the actual value is within about 10% of the actual desiredvalue, particularly within about 5% of the actual desired value andespecially within about 1% of the actual desired value of any variable,element or limit set forth herein.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by onehaving ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Itwill be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonlyused dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and thepresent disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overlyformal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

In describing the invention, it will be understood that a number oftechniques and steps are disclosed. Each of these has individual benefitand each can also be used in conjunction with one or more, or in somecases all, of the other disclosed techniques. Accordingly, for the sakeof clarity, this description will refrain from repeating every possiblecombination of the individual steps in an unnecessary fashion.Nevertheless, the specification and claims should be read with theunderstanding that such combinations are entirely within the scope ofthe invention and the claims.

New apparatuses and methods for testing the integrity of storage tanks,piping, and ancillary equipment are discussed herein. In the followingdescription, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details areset forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the presentinvention. It will be evident, however, to one skilled in the art thatthe present invention may be practiced without these specific details.

The present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of theinvention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specificembodiments illustrated by the figures or description below.

The present invention will now be described by example and throughreferencing the appended figures representing preferred and alternativeembodiments. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an apparatus for testingthe integrity of containment sumps (“the apparatus”) 100 according tovarious embodiments. The testing apparatus 100 may comprise one or moreunderground fixtures, in this example, one underground fixture 11 isshown which may be coupled to a conduit structure 20. The conduitstructure 20 may be coupled to a pressure source 50 which may beconfigured to generate positive 52 or negative pressure 51 within thetesting apparatus 100. The underground fixture 11 may be positionedunderground proximate to a containment sump 201. In some embodiments andas shown in FIGS. 2-5, the testing apparatus 100 may utilize negativepressure 51 to test the integrity of a containment sump 201. Test media61 may be released within the containment sump 201 and the pressuresource 50 may be configured to generate a predetermined negativepressure 51 within the testing apparatus 100. The negative pressure 51may be maintained for a predetermined time period and then the presenceof test media 61 within testing apparatus 100 may be tested for with alack of test media 61 presence used to determine that the containmentsump 201 has integrity. In other embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 6-8,the testing apparatus 100 may utilize positive pressure 52 to test theintegrity of a containment sump 201. Test media 61 may be releasedwithin the conduit structure 20 and the pressure source 50 may beconfigured to generate a predetermined positive pressure 52 within thetesting apparatus 100. The pressure source 50 may apply positivepressure 52 to the apparatus 100 to drive the test media 61 out of theground fixture 11 and into the matrix 205 surrounding the containmentsump 201. The positive pressure 52 may be maintained for a predeterminedtime period and then the presence of test media 61 within containmentsump 201 may be tested for with a lack of test media 61 presence used todetermine that the containment sump 201 has integrity.

The testing apparatus 100 may use a test media 61 to test and determinethe integrity of containment sumps 201, tanks, piping and filling orremoving structures from storage tanks, piping, ancillary equipment, orany other structures for containing any type of regulated liquids whichmay be required under federal and state regulations to provide variouscompliance documentation and periodic tests. In preferred embodiments, atest media 61 may comprise one or more gases which may be heavier thanair which may be used to test integrity and which may thereforeeliminate the use and waste of valuable natural resources, such aswater, for testing and the costs associated with proper disposal of thecontaminated water. Example gas test media 61 includes, but is notlimited to: argon, nitrogen, Xenon, Krypton, Carbon Dioxide, SulfurHexafluoride, Chlorofluorocarbons, Hydrochlorofluorocarbons,Hydrofluorocabons, Fluorocarbons, and certain Hydrocarbons, such asNaptha and light petroleum oils. In further preferred embodiments, atest media 61 may comprise one or more vapors. A vapor may comprise asubstance diffused or suspended in the air or other gas, especially asubstance that is normally liquid or solid. Example vapor test media 61includes Glycerin, Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, mineraloils, Triethylene Glycol, Polyethylene Glycol, Monopropylene Glycol,Butylene Glycol, and surfactants.

An underground fixture 11 may be configured to perform the functions ofan in-ground educator and/or an in-ground aspirator. An undergroundfixture 11 may comprise a plurality of apertures through which air,gasses, liquids, and test media 61 may freely pass through. Generally,all or portions of the underground fixture 11 may be positionedunderground or in the matrix 205 surrounding a containment sump 201 sothat test media 61 may pass into and/or out of the underground fixture11 through the matrix surrounding a containment sump 201 whilepreventing the matrix from entering the testing apparatus 100. Anexemplary underground fixture 11 may comprise ½″ to 1″ Sch 40 PVC withwell screen style slots (or apertures of any other shape) and a sealedbottom cap with weep-hole. The top of the underground fixture 11 may beNPT threaded to accept quick disconnect coupling such as a quick styleconnector with permanent connection to one side and quick connect ordisconnect to other with one side being male and one side being female.Manufacturers may include the following: KENT Systems (collection 3type), Dixon fittings, Parker (series 02, series 25, PDP series),Cole-Parmer (CPC Series). These fit the ½″, 1″ and 1½″ pipe sizesconnections although other sizes and types may be used.

In some embodiments, an underground fixture 11 may be positioned in thematrix 205 (typically soil, pea gravel, or other fill) proximate to thecontainment sump 201 and preferably in close proximity to exterior wallsof the containment sump 201. A matrix 205 may comprise any materialwhich may generally surround or otherwise contact a containment sump201. In other embodiments, an underground fixture 11 may be an integralpart of the containment sump 201 so that an underground fixture 11 maybe part of the manufacturing process of or integrally formed with thecontainment sump 201. In this case, an underground fixture 11 maycomprise any device or method to introduce heavier than air gases and/orvapors via negative or positive pressure 52 and a method to connect tothe underground fixture 11 to the conduit structure 20 of the testingapparatus 100.

The underground fixture 11 may be in fluid communication with a conduitstructure 20 thereby allowing positive or negative pressure 51 generatedby a pressure source 50 to be communicated between the undergroundfixture 11 and the pressure source 50. A conduit structure 20 mayinclude one or more conduits, such as a first conduit 21, second conduit22, third conduit 23, and fourth conduit 24. In preferred embodiments,an underground fixture 11 may be coupled to a third conduit 23 and atest chamber 25 may be coupled to a fourth conduit 24.

The conduit structure 20 and/or one or more conduits 21, 22, 23, 24, maybe formed from any type of pipe or conduit, such as Poly Vinyl Chloride(PVC) pipe and fittings, Chlorinated Poly Vinyl Chloride (CPVC) pipe andfittings, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipe and fittings, galvanizedpipe and fittings, black pipe and fittings, polyethylene pipe andfittings, copper pipe and fittings, brass pipe and fittings, stainlesssteel or other steel alloy pipe and fittings, vinyl pipe and fittings,or any other type of pipe or conduit. Example may include one inchschedule 40 PVC or brass of one size smaller. Larger containment sumptesting may require schedule 80 PVC in sizes from 1″ to 1½″ or brassschedule 40 type although other sizes and materials may be used.

The conduit structure 20 may include one or more connectors, such as anupper connector 27 and a lower connector 28, which may enable elementsof the testing apparatus 100 to be removably coupled to the conduitstructure 20. In some embodiments, an upper connector 27 may be used toremovably couple a pressure source 50 to the fourth conduit 24optionally via a hose, tubing, or other flexible conduit 26. In furtherembodiments, a lower connector 28 may be used to removably couple anunderground fixture 11 to the third conduit 23 optionally via a hose,tubing, or other flexible conduit 26. In still further embodiments,connectors 27, 28, may comprise a quick style connector with permanentconnection to one side and quick connect or disconnect to other with oneside being male and one side being female. Example manufacturers may befrom the following: KENT Systems (collection 3 type), Dixon fittings,Parker (series 02, series 25, PDP series), Cole-Parmer (CPC Series).These fit the ½″, 1″ and 1½″ pipe sizes although other sizes may beused. Exemplary flexible conduit 26 may include tubing for 125 psi orbetter that may be flexible and which may be from poly, rubber,Polytetrafluoroethylene, or combination of materials.

The conduit structure 20 may include one or more connectors which may beconfigured to enable pressure reading instruments 300, such asmanometers, pressure gauges, and the like, to be coupled to the conduitstructure 20 at various locations. For example, the testing apparatus100 may comprise a pressure reading connector 29 positioned on thefourth conduit 24 proximate to the upper connector 27 and a pressurereading connector 29 positioned on the third conduit 23 proximate to thelower connector 28. Example pressure reading connectors 29 include aquick style connector with permanent connection to one side and quickconnect or disconnect to other with one side being male and one sidebeing female. Manufacturers may be from the following: KENT Systems(collection 3 type), Dixon fittings, Parker (series 02, series 25, PDPseries), Cole-Parmer (CPC Series). These fit the test port tubing sizes⅛″, ¼″ and ⅜″ sizes although other sizes may be used.

In some embodiments, the conduit structure 20 may include one or moretest chambers 25 which may be configured to receive a volume of testmedia 61. A test chamber 25 may be configured in any size and shape. Anexemplary test chamber 25 may comprise six to eight inch Schedule 80 PVCwith solvent weld top and bottom and NPT threading on one or moreinlets/outlets. In other embodiments, a test chamber 25 may comprise anysuitable type of tank or containment vessel. In preferred embodiments, atest chamber 25 may comprise one or more viewing portals 35 which mayallow a user to observe or look into the interior of the test chamber25. A viewing portal 35 may comprise any suitable generally transparentmaterial, such as borosilicate glass, which may allow visible light orother electromagnetic radiation to pass through which may be used toindicate the presence of test media 61 within the test chamber 25. Forexample, a laser, flash light, UV light source, or other light sourcethat may illuminate on test media 61 may be directed into the testchamber 25 via a viewing portal 35 so that a user may visually determineif test media 61 is in the test chamber 25. In further embodiments, atest gas meter 301 may be in fluid communication with the test chamber25. A test gas meter 301 may comprise any suitable device for detectingtest media 61 such as the PGD2 Range of Portable Gas Detectors fromStatus Scientific Controls.

Optionally, a test chamber 25 may comprise a vent 32 having a vent valve33 which may be used to allow gases and test media 61 to pass into andout of the test chamber 25. Example vent valves 33 include ½ inch leverstyle ball valves manufactured in PVC or Brass although other sizes andtypes may be used. Manufacturers may be from the following Lasco,Parker, etc. The vent valve 33 may be connected to the test chamber 25and with a “U” vent 32. Optionally, a test chamber 25 may comprise adrain connector 34 which may function as a drain valve and comprise avent valve 33 or the like and/or functions as a connector and comprise aconnector 27, 28, or the like.

In some embodiments, a conduit structure 20 may comprise two conduitsthat may be coupled in parallel to each other. In further embodiments,the conduit structure 20 may comprise a first conduit 21 coupled to botha third conduit 23 and to a fourth conduit 24 and a second conduit 22coupled to both the third conduit 23 and the fourth conduit 24, and thefirst conduit 21 and second conduit 22 may be coupled in parallel toeach other to the third conduit 23 and fourth conduit 24. In preferredembodiments, a first conduit 21 and second conduit 22 may be coupled inparallel to each other to both a third conduit 23 and to a fourthconduit 24 with the underground fixture 11 coupled to the third conduit23. The fourth conduit 24 may be coupled to a test chamber 25 and to apressure source 50 via an upper connector 27 (FIGS. 1, 3, and 6) or viathe test chamber 25 (FIG. 5).

The testing apparatus 100 may comprise a venturi 30 which may beconfigured as a venturi pump and which may be used to generate negativepressure 51 within the conduit structure 20. A venturi 30 may be incommunication with a pressure source 50, and the pressure source 50 andventuri 30 may be configured to generate negative pressure 51 within theconduit structure 20 so that the negative pressure 51 may becommunicated to the underground fixture 11 via the conduit structure 20.Optionally, a venturi 30 may be positioned at the junction of the firstconduit 21 and fourth conduit 24. Example venturi 30 may include aventuri PVC Waterway 212-3450 and 210-3330 for most applications andthey are 1½″ by 2″ by 1″ and 1″ by 1″ by ¾″. Larger devices 100 forcontainment sump testing may require more air flow which would require alarger tester using Waterway 212-3470 which is 1½″ by 2″ by 1″ anddoubles flow and volume. Another example venturi which may be used isthe FOX 611210-060 brass which pulls approximately 3.7 SCFM @ 60 psig tominimum 25″ Hg vacuum.

In some embodiments, the conduit structure 20 may comprise one or morecheck valves 31. Preferably, a check valve 31 may be positioned afterthe venturi 30 on the fourth conduit 24 to maintain the direction offluid communication through the fourth conduit 24. Example check valves31 may include a one inch PVC check valve, a one inch brass check valve,or any other size or material check valve such as provided by themanufacturers of Lasco, Parket, etc.

In some embodiments, the conduit structure 20 may include one or morevalves, such as a first valve 41, second valve 42, and third valve 43,which may be used to direct fluid communication through the conduitstructure 20 between one or more elements of the testing apparatus 100In some embodiments, a first valve 41 may be positioned on the firstconduit 21 to govern fluid communication of the first conduit 21, asecond valve 42 may be positioned on the second conduit 22 to governfluid communication of the second conduit 22, and a third valve 43 maybe positioned on the fourth conduit 24 to govern fluid communication ofthe fourth conduit 24. Example valves 41, 42, 43, may include one inchPVC or brass check valves such as those manufactured by Lasco, Parker,etc., a ball valve, a gate valve, butterfly valve, diaphragm valve,globe valve, check valve, pressure balanced valve, locking valve,solenoid valve, or any other type of valve or controller which may beused to enable, disable, or otherwise govern fluid communication throughone or more elements or components of the testing apparatus 100.

The testing apparatus 100 may be coupled to and/or may comprise one ormore pressure sources 50 which may be configured to generate positive 52and/or negative pressure 51 within the conduit structure 20 for adesired period of time. Example pressure sources 50 may includecompressors 50A, vacuum pumps 50B, and compressed gas containers 50C. Insome embodiments, a pressure source 50 may be in fluid communicationwith the conduit structure 20 and underground fixture 11 to attempt tomotivate a test media 61 through the underground fixture 11 into acontainment sump 201 or to motivate a test media 61 from the containmentsump 201 and into the underground fixture 11. In further embodiments, apressure source 50 may comprise a positive displacement pump such as arotary vane pump, a diaphragm pump, a liquid ring pump, a piston pump, ascroll pump, a screw pump, a Wankel pump, an external vane pump, a rootsblower or booster pump, a multistage roots pump, a Toepler pump, a lobepump, or any other suitable positive displacement pump. In alternativeembodiments, a pressure source 50 may comprise a momentum transfer pump,a regenerative pump, an entrapment pump, or any other type of pump whichmay be suitable for motivating a test media 61.

FIGS. 2-6 disclose methods of using and configuring the testingapparatus 100 to test the integrity of containment sumps 201, tanks,piping and filling or removing structures from storage tanks, piping,ancillary equipment, or any other structures for containing any type ofregulated liquids which may be required under federal and stateregulations to provide various compliance documentation and periodictests using negative pressure 51. Preferably, one or more preparationsteps may be completed before the testing apparatus 100 is used toperform integrity testing. These steps may include: installing one ormore underground fixture(s) 11 or in the case of an integral undergroundfixture 11 that is manufactured into a new containment sump 201, intothe soil, pea gravel, or other type of underground matrix 205 to theproper depth in relation to the containment sump; preparing thecontainment sump 201 for the test by following standard protocol forcleaning and prepping the containment sump 201 which includes removingliquid, debris and visually inspecting all penetration points andinterior for cracks; and evacuating the containment sump 201 with cleanair or nitrogen and check with test gas meter 301 to determine that notest media 61 is present before starting integrity testing.

Referring to FIG. 2, an example of a method for testing the integrity ofcontainment sumps using negative pressure (“the method”) 500 using atesting apparatus 100 which may be configured as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5according to various embodiments described herein is shown. In someembodiments, a pressure source 50, such as a compressor 50A (FIG. 5) ora compressed gas container 50C (FIG. 5), may provide or create negativepressure 51 which may be supplied to the fourth conduit 24 and used tomotivate a test media 61 through a containment sump 201 (if thecontainment sump 201 has a leak) and into the underground fixture 11. Infurther embodiments, a pressure source 50, such as a vacuum pump 50B(FIG. 4), may provide or create negative pressure 51 which may besupplied to the fourth conduit 24 and used to motivate a test media 61through a containment sump 201 (if the containment sump 201 has a leak)and into the underground fixture 11. If the test media 61 is detectedfrom the containment sump 201, the containment sump 201 may bedetermined to not pass integrity testing. In further embodiments, themethod 500 may comprise placing a heavier than air test media 61 insidethe containment sump 201, preferably checked to insure the containmentsump 201 is full of test media 61 above the bottom and side penetrationsor to the top of the containment, and then a negative pressure 51 may beintroduced through the testing apparatus 100 to see if any of the testmedia 61 accumulates in the testing apparatus 100 and measurable in thematrix 205 outside the containment sump 201. No measurable test media 61indicates the containment sump 201 passes the integrity test.

The method 500 may start 501 and the underground fixture 11 may bepositioned proximate to containment sump 201 in step 502. In someembodiments, the underground fixture 11 may be placed in matrix 205 (ex:soil, pea gravel) in close proximity, such as between 0.25 inches andten inches, an exterior wall 202 of the containment sump 201. Inalternative embodiments, the underground fixture 11 may be an integralpart of the containment sump 201 that is formed into the containmentsump 201 as part of the manufacturing process.

In step 503, test media 61 may be released into the containment sump201. Preferably, the test media 61 may be released to fill thecontainment sump 201 above the bottom and side penetrations or to thetop of the containment area. In some embodiments, step 503 may includedetermining which test media 61 to use and placing a test media 61supply hose (attached to pressurized test media 61 storage bottle orcompressed gas container 50C containing test media 61) into bottom ofcontainment sump 201 that is being tested. The test media 61 may beslowly released from pressurized test gas bottle into the containmentsump 201 until the test media 61 preferably fills the containment sump201, such as by checking at the top of the containment sump 201 withtest gas meter 301 or other leak detection monitor specificallycalibrated to the test media 61 to determine when the containment sump201 is “full” of the test media 61. Optionally, the containment sump 201can be checked using soap bubbles that float on top of the test media61. Optionally, the containment sump 201 can also be checked by floatinga solid on top with a specific gravity less than the test media 61.

In step 504, a pressure source 50 may be applied to the testingapparatus 100 to cause a predetermined negative pressure 51, preferablyand approximately between 15 to 30 Hg of vacuum, within the conduitstructure 20 of the testing apparatus 100. The conduit structure 20 maybe in fluid communication with the underground fixture 11 so that thenegative pressure 51 may be communicated to the underground fixture 11.In some embodiments, the conduit structure 20 may be coupled to theunderground fixture 11 via the lower connector 28 preferably using aflexible conduit 26 long enough to place the conduit structure 20 and/ortest chamber 25 approximately ten to twenty feet (up-wind) from thecontainment sump 201 being tested. The test chamber 25 may be connectedto the underground fixture 11 via the conduit structure 20 and thetesting apparatus 100 prepared for the test. In some embodiments and asshown in FIG. 4, a pressure source 50, such as a vacuum pump 50B, may becoupled to a drain connector 34 or other suitable coupling, of the testchamber 25 and the first valve 41 may be closed, the second valve 42 maybe open, and the third valve 43 may be open. Preferably, the vent valve33 may be closed during negative pressure 51 application and open onlyfor sample collection. In other embodiments and as shown in FIG. 5, apressure source 50, such as a compressor 50A or compressed gas container50C, may be coupled to the upper connector 27 and the first valve 41 maybe open, the second valve 42 may be closed, and the third valve 43 maybe open with the venturi 30 providing a negative pressure 51.

In step 505, the predetermined negative pressure 51 may be maintainedfor a desired time period. In some embodiments, the conduit structure 20may be maintained at a negative pressure 51 long enough to displace theair in the matrix 205 surrounding the exterior of the containment sump201 that is being tested through the conduit structure 20, preferablyfor minimum 5 minutes. If the containment sump 201 has a leak, testmedia 61 will be displaced with the air into the testing apparatus 100via the underground fixture 11.

In step 506, the presence of test media 61 may be tested for within thetesting apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the test media 61 may betested for at the test chamber 25 vent 32 outlet with a test gas meter301 or other leak detection monitor specifically calibrated to the testmedia 61 to determine the level of potential test media 61 within thetest chamber 25. In some embodiments, if no test media 61 is detected,the containment sump 201 may be determined to have passed the integritytest. In further embodiments, if test media 61 is detected, thecontainment sump 201 may be determined to have failed the integritytest. In still further embodiments, if the containment sump 201 failsthe test, restart from the preparation and begin the method 500 again.In alternative embodiments, if the containment sump 201 fails the testand if possible, restart from the preparation and perform a method fortesting the integrity of containment sumps using positive pressure 700and/or 800 (FIGS. 6-8). After step 506 the method 500 may finish 507.

Referring to FIG. 3, an example of another method for testing theintegrity of containment sumps using negative pressure (“the method”)550 using a testing apparatus 100 which may be configured as shown inFIGS. 4 and 5 according to various embodiments described herein isshown. The method 550 may be used for testing the integrity of acontainment sump 201 that is in contact with a matrix 205 via a testingapparatus 100. The testing apparatus 100 may comprise an undergroundfixture 11 that may be positioned in contact the matrix 205, a testchamber 25, a conduit structure 20 providing fluid communication betweenthe underground fixture 11 and the test chamber 25, and a pressuresource 50 for exerting a negative pressure 51 that is communicated tothe underground fixture 11 via the conduit structure 20.

In some embodiments, a pressure source 50, such as a compressor 50A(FIG. 5) or a compressed gas container 50C (FIG. 5), may provide orcreate negative pressure 51 which may be supplied to the fourth conduit24 and used to motivate a test media 61 through a containment sump 201(if the containment sump 201 has a leak) and into the undergroundfixture 11. In further embodiments, a pressure source 50, such as avacuum pump 50B (FIG. 4), may provide or create negative pressure 51which may be supplied to the fourth conduit 24 and used to motivate atest media 61 through a containment sump 201 (if the containment sump201 has a leak) and into the underground fixture 11. In still furtherembodiments, a pressure source 50 may be coupled to the test chamber 25and configured to generate a negative pressure 51 within the testchamber 25 that may be communicated to the underground fixture 11 viathe conduit structure 20. If the test media 61 is detected from thecontainment sump 201, the containment sump 201 may be determined to notpass integrity testing. In further embodiments, the method 550 maycomprise placing a heavier than air test media 61 inside the containmentsump 201, preferably checked to insure the containment sump 201 is fullof test media 61 above the bottom and side penetrations or to the top ofthe containment, and then a negative pressure 51 may be introducedthrough the testing apparatus 100 to see if any of the test media 61accumulates in the testing apparatus 100 and measurable in the matrix205 outside the containment sump 201. No measurable test media 61indicates the containment sump 201 passes the integrity test.

The method 550 may start 551 and test media 61 may be released into thecontainment sump 201 in step 552. Preferably, the test media 61 may bereleased to fill the containment sump 201 above the bottom and sidepenetrations or to the top of the containment area. In some embodiments,step 552 may include determining which test media 61 to use and placinga test media 61 supply hose (attached to pressurized test media 61storage bottle or compressed gas container 50C containing test media 61)into bottom of containment sump 201 that is being tested. The test media61 may be slowly released from pressurized test gas bottle into thecontainment sump 201 until the test media 61 preferably fills thecontainment sump 201, such as by checking at the top of the containmentsump 201 with test gas meter 301 or other leak detection monitorspecifically calibrated to the test media 61 to determine when thecontainment sump 201 is “full” of the test media 61. Optionally, thecontainment sump 201 can be checked using soap bubbles that float on topof the test media 61. Optionally, the containment sump 201 can also bechecked by floating a solid on top with a specific gravity less than thetest media 61.

In step 553, a negative pressure 51 may be generated within the testingapparatus 100 for a time period. In some embodiments, a pressure source50 may be applied or otherwise coupled to the testing apparatus 100 tocause a predetermined negative pressure 51, preferably and approximatelybetween 15 to 30 Hg of vacuum, within the conduit structure 20 of thetesting apparatus 100. In further embodiments, a pressure source 50 maybe coupled to the test chamber 25 and configured to generate a negativepressure 51 within the test chamber 25 that may be communicated to theunderground fixture 11 via the conduit structure 20. The conduitstructure 20 may be in fluid communication with the underground fixture11 so that the negative pressure 51 may be communicated to theunderground fixture 11. The predetermined negative pressure 51 may bemaintained for any desired time period. In some embodiments, the conduitstructure 20 may be maintained at a negative pressure 51 long enough todisplace the air in the matrix 205 surrounding the exterior of thecontainment sump 201 that is being tested through the conduit structure20, preferably for minimum 5 minutes. If the containment sump 201 has aleak, test media 61 will be displaced with the air into the testingapparatus 100 via the underground fixture 11.

In some embodiments, the conduit structure 20 may be coupled to theunderground fixture 11 via the lower connector 28 preferably using aflexible conduit 26 long enough to place the device approximately ten totwenty feet (up-wind) from the containment sump 201 being tested. Thetest chamber 25 may be connected to the underground fixture 11 via theconduit structure 20 and the testing apparatus 100 prepared for thetest. In some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 4, a pressure source 50,such as a vacuum pump 50B, may be coupled to a drain connector 34 orother suitable coupling, of the test chamber 25 and the first valve 41may be closed, the second valve 42 may be open, and the third valve 43may be open. Preferably, the vent valve 33 may be closed during negativepressure 51 application and open only for sample collection. In otherembodiments and as shown in FIG. 5, a pressure source 50, such as acompressor 50A or compressed gas container 50C, may be coupled to theupper connector 27 and the first valve 41 may be open, the second valve42 may be closed, and the third valve 43 may be open with the venturi 30providing a negative pressure 51.

In step 554, the presence of test media 61 may be tested for within thetesting apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the test media 61 may betested for at the test chamber 25 vent 32 outlet with a test gas meter301 or other leak detection monitor specifically calibrated to the testmedia 61 to determine the level of potential test media 61 within thetest chamber 25. In further embodiments, the test media 61 may be testedfor by observing test media 61 within the test chamber 25 via one ormore viewing portals 35 in the test chamber 25. For example, the testmedia 61 may comprise a vapor that may be illuminated by a light source,such as a laser light source, that may be directed into the test chamber25 via one or more viewing portals 35 to allow a user to observe thetest media 61 within the test chamber 25.

In some embodiments, if no test media 61 is detected, the containmentsump 201 may be determined to have passed the integrity test. In furtherembodiments, if test media 61 is detected, the containment sump 201 maybe determined to have failed the integrity test. In still furtherembodiments, if the containment sump 201 fails the test, restart fromthe preparation and begin the method 550 again. In alternativeembodiments, if the containment sump 201 fails the test and if possible,restart from the preparation and perform a method for testing theintegrity of containment sumps using positive pressure 700 and/or 800(FIGS. 6-8). After step 554 the method 550 may finish 555.

Turning now to FIGS. 6-7, example methods 700 and 750, respectively, fortesting the integrity of containment sumps using positive pressure 52via a testing apparatus 100 which may be configured as shown in FIG. 8and according to various embodiments described herein is illustrated. Inthis and in some embodiments, a pressure source 50, such as a compressor50A or a compressed gas container 50C, may generate positive pressure 52which may be supplied to the fourth conduit 24 and used to motivate atest media 61 through the underground fixture 11 and into a containmentsump 201. If the test media 61 is detected in the containment sump 201,the containment sump 201 may be determined to not pass integritytesting. In further embodiments, the methods 700, 750, may compriseinjecting a test media 61 of heavier than air gases and/or vapors usedfor testing with a positive pressure 52 into the testing apparatus 100directly into the matrix 205 adjacent and surrounding the exterior ofthe containment sump 201. A measurement for the test media 61 may beconducted prior to the injection process through the testing apparatus100 and after the injection of the test media 61 through the testingapparatus 100 into the matrix 205 surrounding the exterior walls andbottom of the containment sump 201. In addition, the testing apparatus100 can be used to purge existing collected gases and/or vapors from thecontainment sump 201 prior to any integrity testing.

Referencing FIGS. 6 and 8, a block diagram of an example of a method fortesting the integrity of containment sumps using positive pressure (“themethod”) 700 according to various embodiments described herein ispresented. The method 700 may start 701 and the underground fixture 11may be positioned proximate to containment sump 201 in step 702. In someembodiments, the underground fixture 11 may be placed in matrix 205 inclose proximity, such as between 0.25 inches and ten inches, to exteriorwalls of the containment sump 201. In alternative embodiments, theunderground fixture 11 may be an integral part of the containment sump201 that is formed into the containment sump 201 as part of themanufacturing process.

In step 703 test media 61 may be released into the testing apparatus 100to cause a predetermined positive pressure 52 within the testingapparatus 100. In some embodiments, step 703 may include determiningwhich test media 61 to use and couple test gas/vapor hose or conduit(attached to pressurized test gas compressor 50A or compressed gascontainer 50C) to upper connector 27 preferably via a flexible conduit26. The underground fixture 11 may be coupled to the lower connector 28preferably using a flexible conduit 26 long enough to place the testingapparatus 100 and pressure source 50 approximately ten to twenty feet orother appropriate distance (down-wind) from the containment sump 201being tested. The testing apparatus 100 may be prepared the test byclosing the first valve 41, opening the second valve 42, and closing thethird valve 43. Preferably the test media 61 may be slowly released frompressure source 50 into the testing apparatus 100 to cause apredetermined positive pressure 52 within the testing apparatus 100. Infurther embodiments, appropriate positive pressure 52 may be appliedfrom the pressure source 50 to cause a predetermined positive pressureof 30″-60″ Water Column (WC). For example, pressurization can beachieved by doing one of the following: using compressed gas container50C with the appropriate gas regulator valve; or compressor 50A withcontainer designed to hold enough test media 61 under pressure with avalve assembly.

In step 704, the predetermined positive pressure 52 may be maintainedfor a desired time period. In some embodiments, the pressurized testmedia 61 may be maintained at a positive pressure 52 long enough todisplace the air surrounding the exterior of the containment sump 201that is being tested, preferably for minimum 5 minutes. In preferredembodiments, the pressure source 50 may apply a positive pressure 52 tothe testing apparatus 100 for a desired time period to drive the testmedia 61 out of the ground fixture 11 and into the matrix 205surrounding the containment sump 201. If the containment sump 201 has aleak, test media 61 will enter the containment sump 201 through theleak.

Next in step 705, the presence of test media 61 within containment sump201 may be tested for. Preferably, the presence of test media 61 insidethe containment sump 201 may be tested for with a test gas meter 301 orother leak detection monitor specifically calibrated to the test media61 to determine the level of potential test media 61 within bottom,sides and penetration points of the containment sump 201 being tested.In some embodiments, if no test media 61 is detected, the containmentsump 201 may be determined to have passed the integrity test. In furtherembodiments, if test media 61 is detected, the containment sump 201 maybe determined to have failed the integrity test. In still furtherembodiments, if the containment sump 201 fails the test, restart fromthe preparation and begin the method 700 again. In alternativeembodiments, if the containment sump 201 fails the test of method 700and if possible, restart from the preparation and re-perform thenegative pressure methods 500 or 550. After step 705 the method 700 mayfinish 706.

Turning now to FIG. 7, a block diagram of another example of a methodfor testing the integrity of containment sumps using positive pressure(“the method”) 750 using a testing apparatus 100 which may be configuredas shown in FIG. 8 according to various embodiments described herein isshown. The method 750 may be used for testing the integrity of acontainment sump 201 that is in contact with a matrix 205 via a testingapparatus 100. The testing apparatus 100 may comprise an undergroundfixture 11 that may be positioned in contact the matrix 205, a testchamber 25, a conduit structure 20 providing fluid communication betweenthe underground fixture 11 and the test chamber 25, and a pressuresource 50 for exerting a positive pressure 52 that is communicated tothe underground fixture 11 via the conduit structure 20. In someembodiments, the underground fixture 11 may be placed in matrix 205 inclose proximity, such as between 0.25 inches and ten inches, to exteriorwalls of the containment sump 201. In alternative embodiments, theunderground fixture 11 may be an integral part of the containment sump201 that is formed into the containment sump 201 as part of themanufacturing process.

In some embodiments, the method 750 may start 751 and test media 61 maybe released into the testing apparatus 100 to cause a predeterminedpositive pressure 52 within the testing apparatus 100 in step 752. Insome embodiments, step 703 may include determining which test media 61to use and couple test gas/vapor hose or conduit (attached topressurized test gas compressor 50A or compressed gas container 50C) toupper connector 27 preferably via a flexible conduit 26. The undergroundfixture 11 may be coupled to the lower connector 28 preferably using aflexible conduit 26 long enough to place the testing apparatus 100 andpressure source 50 approximately ten to twenty feet or other appropriatedistance (down-wind) from the containment sump 201 being tested. Thetesting apparatus 100 may be prepared the test by closing the firstvalve 41, opening the second valve 42, and closing the third valve 43.Preferably the test media 61 may be slowly released from pressure source50 into the testing apparatus 100 to cause a predetermined positivepressure 52 within the testing apparatus 100. In further embodiments,appropriate positive pressure 52 may be applied from the pressure source50 to cause a predetermined positive pressure of 30″-60″ Water Column(WC). For example, pressurization can be achieved by doing one of thefollowing: using compressed gas container 50C with the appropriate gasregulator valve; or compressor 50A with container designed to holdenough test media 61 under pressure with a valve assembly.

In step 753, a positive pressure 52 may be generated within the testingapparatus 100 for a time period. In some embodiments, a pressure source50 may be applied or otherwise coupled to the testing apparatus 100 tocause a predetermined positive pressure 52, preferably and approximatelybetween 15 to 30 Hg of pressure, within the conduit structure 20 of thetesting apparatus 100. The conduit structure 20 may be in fluidcommunication with the underground fixture 11 so that the positivepressure 52 may be communicated to the underground fixture 11. Thepredetermined positive pressure 52 may be maintained for any desiredtime period. In some embodiments, the conduit structure 20 may bemaintained at a positive pressure 52 long enough to displace the air inthe matrix 205 surrounding the exterior of the containment sump 201 thatis being tested through the conduit structure 20, preferably for minimum5 minutes. If the containment sump 201 has a leak, test media 61 will bedisplaced with the air into the containment sump 201 from the testingapparatus 100 via the underground fixture 11 and matrix 205.

Next in step 754, the presence of test media 61 within containment sump201 may be tested for. Preferably, the presence of test media 61 insidethe containment sump 201 may be tested for with a test gas meter 301 orother leak detection monitor specifically calibrated to the test media61 to determine the level of potential test media 61 within bottom,sides and penetration points of the containment sump 201 being tested.In some embodiments, if no test media 61 is detected, the containmentsump 201 may be determined to have passed the integrity test. In furtherembodiments, if test media 61 is detected, the containment sump 201 maybe determined to have failed the integrity test. In still furtherembodiments, if the containment sump 201 fails the test, restart fromthe preparation and begin the method 750 again. In alternativeembodiments, if the containment sump 201 fails the test of method 750and if possible, restart from the preparation and re-perform thenegative pressure methods 500 or 550. After step 754 the method 750 mayfinish 755.

While some coupling methods have been provided, in some embodiments, oneor more of the elements that comprise the testing apparatus 100 may becoupled or connected together with heat bonding, chemical bonding,adhesives, clasp type fasteners, clip type fasteners, rivet typefasteners, threaded type fasteners, other types of fasteners, or anyother suitable joining method. In other embodiments, one or more of theelements that comprise the testing apparatus 100 may be coupled orremovably connected by being press fit or snap fit together, by one ormore fasteners such as magnetic type fasteners, threaded type fasteners,sealable tongue and groove fasteners, snap fasteners, clip typefasteners, clasp type fasteners, ratchet type fasteners, a push-to-locktype connection method, a turn-to-lock type connection method, aslide-to-lock type connection method or any other suitable temporaryconnection method as one reasonably skilled in the art could envision toserve the same function. In further embodiments, one or more of theelements that comprise the testing apparatus 100 may be coupled by beingone of connected to and integrally formed with another element of thetesting apparatus 100.

Although the present invention has been illustrated and described hereinwith reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof,it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art thatother embodiments and examples may perform similar functions and/orachieve like results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples arewithin the spirit and scope of the present invention, are contemplatedthereby, and are intended to be covered by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for testing the integrity of acontainment sump in contact with a matrix with a testing apparatus, thetesting apparatus comprising an underground fixture positioned incontact with the matrix, a test chamber, a conduit structure providingfluid communication between the underground fixture and the testchamber, and a pressure source for exerting a pressure that iscommunicated to the underground fixture via the conduit structure, themethod comprising: releasing a test media into the testing apparatus;generating a positive pressure within the testing apparatus for a timeperiod; and testing for the presence of test media within thecontainment sump.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the pressure sourceapplies the positive pressure to drive the test media out of the groundfixture and into the matrix.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein theconduit structure comprises a first conduit coupled to both a thirdconduit and to a fourth conduit and a second conduit coupled to both thethird conduit and the fourth conduit, and wherein the first conduit andsecond conduit are coupled in parallel to each other to the thirdconduit and fourth conduit.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein theunderground fixture is coupled to the third conduit, and wherein thetest chamber is coupled to the fourth conduit.
 5. The method of claim 3,wherein the pressure source is coupled to the third conduit.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the pressure source is selected from thegroup consisting essentially of a compressor, a vacuum pump, and acompressed gas container.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the conduitstructure comprises a pressure reading connector.
 8. The method of claim1, wherein the conduit structure comprises a check valve.
 9. The methodof claim 1, wherein the test media is selected from a gas and a vapor.